77-501: Guaiacum angustifolium Guaiacum coulteri Guaiacum officinale Guaiacum sanctum Guaiacum unijugum Guaiacum ( / ˈ ɡ w aɪ . ə . k əm / ), sometimes spelled Guajacum , is a genus of flowering plants in the caltrop family Zygophyllaceae . It contains five species of slow-growing shrubs and trees , reaching a height of approximately 20 m (66 ft) but usually less than half of that. All are native to subtropical and tropical regions of
154-430: A norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), by blocking the norepinephrine transporter (NET) and the dopamine transporter (DAT). Methylphenidate has a higher affinity for the dopamine transporter than for the norepinephrine transporter, and so its effects are mainly due to elevated dopamine levels caused by the inhibited reuptake of dopamine, however increased norepinephrine levels also contribute to various of
231-515: A steel ball 0.444 in (1.13 cm) in diameter half that distance into the wood. The Spanish encountered guaiacum wood when they conquered San Domingo in the sixteenth century. It was soon brought back to Europe , where epidemic syphilis had been raging for decades. Gum guiacum quickly acquired a reputation as a cure for syphilis , a practice Benvenuto Cellini records in his memoirs . Thomas Nashe referred to its supposed medical properties in his tract Nashe's Lenten Stuff , alluding to
308-403: A substituted amphetamine and consequently, a substituted phenethylamine . Major stimulant classes include phenethylamines and their daughter class substituted amphetamines . Substituted amphetamines are a class of compounds based upon the amphetamine structure; it includes all derivative compounds which are formed by replacing, or substituting , one or more hydrogen atoms in
385-638: A benzyloxy connected to the 3 carbon of a tropane . Various modifications include substitutions on the benzene ring , as well as additions or substitutions in place of the normal carboxylate on the tropane 2 carbon. Various compound with similar structure activity relationships to cocaine that aren't technically analogs have been developed as well. Most stimulants exert their activating effects by enhancing catecholamine neurotransmission. Catecholamine neurotransmitters are employed in regulatory pathways implicated in attention, arousal, motivation, task salience and reward anticipation. Classical stimulants either block
462-429: A drug allows its user to run faster, lift heavier, or last longer, it is said to have ergogenic effects. Drugs such as ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, amphetamine and methylphenidate have well documented ergogenic effects, while cocaine has the opposite effect. Neurocognitive enhancing effects of stimulants, specifically modafinil , amphetamine and methylphenidate have been reported in healthy adolescents by some studies, and
539-571: A drug can elicit activating effects. Caffeine is an adenosine receptor antagonist , and only indirectly increases catecholamine transmission in the brain. Pitolisant is an histamine 3 (H 3 )-receptor inverse agonist . As histamine 3 (H 3 ) receptors mainly act as autoreceptors , pitolisant decreases negative feedback to histaminergic neurons, enhancing histaminergic transmission. The precise mechanism of action of some stimulants, such as modafinil, for treating symptoms of narcolepsy and other sleep disorders, remains unknown. Amphetamine
616-447: A far greater risk of serious side effects, such as dependence, which only rarely arises with therapeutic amphetamine use. Caffeine is a stimulant compound belonging to the xanthine class of chemicals naturally found in coffee , tea , and (to a lesser degree) cocoa or chocolate . It is included in many soft drinks , as well as a larger amount in energy drinks . Caffeine is the world's most widely used psychoactive drug and by far
693-1065: A four-year period found that there were few negative effects of stimulant treatment, but stressed the need for longer-term studies. A review of a year long period of prescription stimulant use in those with ADHD found that cardiovascular side effects were limited to transient increases in blood pressure only. However, a 2024 systematic review of the evidence found that stimulants overall improve ADHD symptoms and broadband behavioral measures in children and adolescents, though they carry risks of side effects like appetite suppression and other adverse events. Initiation of stimulant treatment in those with ADHD in early childhood appears to carry benefits into adulthood with regard to social and cognitive functioning, and appears to be relatively safe. Abuse of prescription stimulants (not following physician instruction) or of illicit stimulants carries many negative health risks. Abuse of cocaine, depending upon route of administration, increases risk of cardiorespiratory disease, stroke , and sepsis . Some effects are dependent upon
770-399: A large driver of drowsiness and sleep, and their action increases with extended wakefulness. Caffeine has been found to increase striatal dopamine in animal models, as well as inhibit the inhibitory effect of adenosine receptors on dopamine receptors, however the implications for humans are unknown. Unlike most stimulants, caffeine has no addictive potential. Caffeine does not appear to be
847-471: A reinforcing stimulus, and some degree of aversion may actually occur, per a study on drug abuse liability published in an NIDA research monograph that described a group preferring placebo over caffeine. In large telephone surveys only 11% reported dependence symptoms. However, when people were tested in labs, only half of those who claim dependence actually experienced it, casting doubt on caffeine's ability to produce dependence and putting societal pressures in
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#1732780290874924-482: Is a psychoactive drug of the phenethylamine and amphetamine chemical classes that is used as a stimulant, decongestant , and anorectic agent. It is commonly used in prescription and over-the-counter cough and cold preparations . In veterinary medicine , it is used to control urinary incontinence in dogs under trade names Propalin and Proin. In the United States, PPA is no longer sold without
1001-479: Is a synthetic stimulant drug of the amphetamine and cathinone classes. Slang names include drone and MCAT. It is reported to be manufactured in China and is chemically similar to the cathinone compounds found in the khat plant of eastern Africa . It comes in the form of tablets or a powder, which users can swallow, snort, or inject, producing similar effects to MDMA , amphetamines , and cocaine . Mephedrone
1078-430: Is a commonly cited reason among illicit drug users for use, particularly among college students in the context of studying. Still, results of these studies is inconclusive: assessing the potential overall neurocognitive benefits of stimulants among healthy youth is challenging due to the diversity within the population, the variability in cognitive task characteristics, and the absence of replication of studies. Research on
1155-884: Is a euphoriant, empathogen , and stimulant of the amphetamine class. Briefly used by some psychotherapists as an adjunct to therapy, the drug became popular recreationally and the DEA listed MDMA as a Schedule I controlled substance , prohibiting most medical studies and applications. MDMA is known for its entactogenic properties. The stimulant effects of MDMA include hypertension , anorexia (appetite loss), euphoria , social disinhibition, insomnia (enhanced wakefulness/inability to sleep), improved energy , increased arousal, and increased perspiration , among others. Relative to catecholaminergic transmission, MDMA enhances serotonergic transmission significantly more, when compared to classical stimulants like amphetamine. MDMA does not appear to be significantly addictive or dependence forming. Due to
1232-430: Is a flat, leathery capsule 1–2 cm (0.39–0.79 in) in diameter with one to two lobes, sometimes as many as four. Dehiscent locules contain a single shiny, bean -like seed that is usually bright red. Like other species in its genus , the wood of G. angustifolium has extreme hardness and density and will sink in water. The sapwood is creamy yellow, while the heartwood is dark purple-brown. The wood
1309-446: Is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant of the phenethylamine class that is approved for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy . Amphetamine is also used off-label as a performance and cognitive enhancer , and recreationally as an aphrodisiac and euphoriant . Although it is a prescription medication in many countries, unauthorized possession and distribution of amphetamine
1386-519: Is a species of flowering plant in the caltrop family , Zygophyllaceae . Common names include Texas guaiacum , Texas lignum-vitae , soapbush and huayacán . It is native to southern and western Texas in the United States and northern Mexico . The specific name is derived from the Latin angustus , meaning "narrow," and -folius , meaning "-leaved". In Texas, this tree can be found in
1463-467: Is a stimulant drug that is often used in the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy and occasionally to treat obesity in combination with diet restraints and exercise. Its effects at therapeutic doses include increased focus, increased alertness, decreased appetite, decreased need for sleep and decreased impulsivity. Methylphenidate is not usually used recreationally, but when it is used, its effects are very similar to those of amphetamines. Methylphenidate acts as
1540-474: Is a stronger CNS stimulant than levomethamphetamine ; however, both are addictive and produce the same toxicity symptoms at high doses. Although rarely prescribed due to the potential risks, methamphetamine hydrochloride is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) under the trade name Desoxyn . Recreationally, methamphetamine is used to increase sexual desire , lift
1617-421: Is addictive and dependence forming. Tobacco, the most common source of nicotine, has an overall harm to user and self score 3 percent below cocaine, and 13 percent above amphetamines, ranking 6th most harmful of the 20 drugs assessed, as determined by a multi-criteria decision analysis. Phenylpropanolamine (PPA; Accutrim; β-hydroxyamphetamine), also known as the stereoisomers norephedrine and norpseudoephedrine,
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#17327802908741694-541: Is controlled under CITES Appendix II . Guaiacum officinale is the national flower of Jamaica , while Guaiacum sanctum is the national tree of the Bahamas . The genus is famous as the supplier of lignum vitae , which is the wood of several species in the genus. It is the fourth-hardest variety of wood as measured by the Janka hardness test , requiring a force of 4,500 lb f (20,000 N) to embed
1771-457: Is cultivated as an ornamental because of its drought tolerance , dense foliage, compact size, gnarled branches, and fragrant flowers. It is used in hedges , rock gardens , and xeriscaping . Guaiacum angustifolium is a host plant for the caterpillars of the lyside sulphur ( Kricogonia lyside ). The leaves contain 16-18% crude protein and are browsed by white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus ). Like other members of its genus,
1848-530: Is high (higher than amphetamine), and so its sale and possession are strictly controlled in most jurisdictions. Other tropane derivative drugs related to cocaine are also known such as troparil and lometopane but have not been widely sold or used recreationally. Nicotine is the active chemical constituent in tobacco , which is available in many forms, including cigarettes , cigars , chewing tobacco , and smoking cessation aids such as nicotine patches , nicotine gum , and electronic cigarettes . Nicotine
1925-428: Is known to have a high potential for abuse and addiction . Recreational use of methamphetamine may result in psychosis or lead to post-withdrawal syndrome , a withdrawal syndrome that can persist for months beyond the typical withdrawal period. Unlike amphetamine and cocaine , methamphetamine is neurotoxic to humans, damaging both dopamine and serotonin neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Unlike
2002-433: Is no evidence that coffee stunts a child's growth. Caffeine may increase the effectiveness of some medications including ones used to treat headaches . Caffeine may lessen the severity of acute mountain sickness if taken a few hours prior to attaining a high altitude. Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine similar in molecular structure to the well-known drugs phenylpropanolamine and methamphetamine , as well as to
2079-422: Is often tightly controlled due to the significant health risks associated with uncontrolled or heavy use. As a consequence, amphetamine is illegally manufactured in clandestine labs to be trafficked and sold to users. Based upon drug and drug precursor seizures worldwide, illicit amphetamine production and trafficking is much less prevalent than that of methamphetamine . The first pharmaceutical amphetamine
2156-647: Is poor/mixed. Notably, two recent large phase III studies of lisdexamfetamine (a prodrug to amphetamine) as an adjunct to an SSRI or SNRI in the treatment of major depressive disorder showed no further benefit relative to placebo in effectiveness. Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of drugs such as Adderall (a mixture of salts of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine ) in controlling symptoms associated with ADHD . Due to their availability and fast-acting effects, substituted amphetamines are prime candidates for abuse. Hundreds of cocaine analogs have been created, all of them usually maintaining
2233-560: Is possible, but the evidence is inconclusive. Moderate coffee consumption may decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease , and it may somewhat reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes . Drinking 1-3 cups of coffee per day does not affect the risk of hypertension compared to drinking little or no coffee. However those who drink 2–4 cups per day may be at a slightly increased risk. Caffeine increases intraocular pressure in those with glaucoma but does not appear to affect normal individuals. It may protect people from liver cirrhosis . There
2310-475: Is the release of vesicular stores of monoamine neurotransmitters through VMAT2 , thereby increasing the concentration of these neurotransmitters in the cytosol , or intracellular fluid, of the presynaptic neuron . Amphetamines-type stimulants are often used for their therapeutic effects. Physicians sometimes prescribe amphetamine to treat major depression , where subjects do not respond well to traditional SSRI medications, but evidence supporting this use
2387-410: Is they stimulate the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system. This leads to effects such as mydriasis , increased heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and body temperature. When these changes become pathological, they are called arrhythmia , hypertension , and hyperthermia , and may lead to rhabdomyolysis , stroke , cardiac arrest , or seizures . However, given the complexity of
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2464-469: Is used for fence posts, tool handles, and firewood . Root extracts are used to treat rheumatism and sexually transmitted diseases . Soap can be made from the root bark, as it contains saponin ; historically soap made in this way would be used to wash wool , since it does not fade the dyed-colors. The bark of the roots is also used as a disinfectant. The flowers are valued by beekeepers for their consistent nectar production. Texas lignum-vitae
2541-452: Is used to relieve nasal or sinus congestion caused by the common cold, sinusitis, hay fever and other respiratory allergies; it is also used to relieve ear congestion caused by ear inflammation or infection. Stimulants were one of the first classes of drugs to be used in the treatment of depression , beginning after the introduction of the amphetamines in the 1930s. However, they were largely abandoned for treatment of depression following
2618-414: Is used widely throughout the world for its stimulating and relaxing effects. Nicotine exerts its effects through the agonism of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors , resulting in multiple downstream effects such as increase in activity of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain reward system , and acetaldehyde one of the tobacco constituent decreased the expression of monoamine oxidase in the brain. Nicotine
2695-555: The Americas and are commonly known as lignum-vitae , guayacán ( Spanish ), or gaïac ( French ). The genus name originated in Taíno , the language spoken by the native Taínos of the Bahamas ; it was adopted into English in 1533, the first word in that language of American origin. Members of the genus have a variety of uses, including as lumber , for medicinal purposes, and as ornamentals . The trade of all species of Guaiacum
2772-1062: The reward system , learning , memory , and emotion . By increasing their availability, stimulants can produce a range of effects, from mild stimulation to euphoria , depending on the specific drug, dose, route of administration, and individual factors. Stimulants have a long history of use, both for medical and non-medical purposes. They have been used to treat various conditions, such as narcolepsy , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity , depression , and fatigue . They have also been used as recreational drugs , performance-enhancing substances , and cognitive enhancers , by various groups of people, such as students, athletes, artists, workers, and soldiers. However, stimulants also have potential risks and side effects, such as addiction , tolerance , withdrawal , psychosis , anxiety , insomnia , cardiovascular problems , and neurotoxicity . The misuse and abuse of stimulants can lead to serious health and social consequences, such as overdose , dependence , crime , and violence . Therefore,
2849-664: The United States. Also, the production, distribution, sale, and possession of methamphetamine is restricted or illegal in many other countries due to its placement in schedule II of the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances treaty. In contrast, levomethamphetamine is an over-the-counter drug in the United States. In low doses, methamphetamine can cause an elevated mood and increase alertness, concentration, and energy in fatigued individuals. At higher doses, it can induce psychosis , rhabdomyolysis , and cerebral hemorrhage . Methamphetamine
2926-476: The ability to focus, a principle of the Yerkes-Dodson Law . The Yerkes-Dodson Law is a psychological theory that describes how stress affects performance. The theory says that there is an optimal level of stress that helps people perform better, but too much or too little stress can impair performance. The theory can be illustrated by an upside-down U-shaped curve, where the peak of the curve represents
3003-659: The actions of the sympathetic nervous system . The sympathetic nervous system is a part of the nervous system that prepares the body for action, such as increasing the heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Stimulants can activate the same receptors as the natural chemicals released by the sympathetic nervous system (namely epinephrine and norepinephrine ) and cause similar effects. Stimulants in therapeutic doses, such as those given to patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), increases ability to focus, vigor, sociability, libido and may elevate mood. However, in higher doses, stimulants may actually decrease
3080-473: The activity of norepinephrine (noradrenaline) on adrenergic receptors . It is most usually marketed as the hydrochloride or sulfate salt. The herb má huáng ( Ephedra sinica ), used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), contains ephedrine and pseudoephedrine as its principal active constituents. The same may be true of other herbal products containing extracts from other Ephedra species. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy, or molly)
3157-597: The amphetamine core structure with substituents . Examples of substituted amphetamines are amphetamine (itself), methamphetamine , ephedrine , cathinone , phentermine , mephentermine , bupropion , methoxyphenamine , selegiline , amfepramone , pyrovalerone , MDMA (ecstasy), and DOM (STP). Many drugs in this class work primarily by activating trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1); in turn, this causes reuptake inhibition and effluxion, or release, of dopamine , norepinephrine , and serotonin . An additional mechanism of some substituted amphetamines
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3234-687: The area around the Rio Grande , including Austin , Matagorda Bay , New Braunfels , San Antonio , Brownsville and Fort McIntosh westward to the Rio Pecos . In the 19th century trees growing along the outskirts of this region were so small they were described by the United States Department of Interior as "low shrub(s)". The largest examples could be found on the hillsides near the Guadalupe River valley. In Mexico,
3311-710: The cognitive enhancement effects of modafinil in healthy non-sleep-deprived individuals has yielded mixed results, with some studies suggesting modest improvements in attention and executive functions while others show no significant benefits or even a decline in cognitive functions. In some cases, psychiatric phenomena may emerge such as stimulant psychosis , paranoia , and suicidal ideation . Acute toxicity has been reportedly associated with homicide, paranoia, aggressive behavior, motor dysfunction, and punding . The violent and aggressive behavior associated with acute stimulant toxicity may partially be driven by paranoia. Most drugs classified as stimulants are sympathomimetics, that
3388-683: The death of a young man from acute caffeine toxicity. In Canada, Health Canada has proposed to limit the amount of caffeine in energy drinks to 180 mg per serving, and to require warning labels and other safety measures on these products. Caffeine is also included in some medications, usually for the purpose of enhancing the effect of the primary ingredient, or reducing one of its side-effects (especially drowsiness). Tablets containing standardized doses of caffeine are also widely available. Caffeine's mechanism of action differs from many stimulants, as it produces stimulant effects by inhibiting adenosine receptors. Adenosine receptors are thought to be
3465-416: The effects caused by the drug. Methylphenidate is sold under a number of brand names including Ritalin. Other versions include the long lasting tablet Concerta and the long lasting transdermal patch Daytrana. Cocaine is an SNDRI . Cocaine is made from the leaves of the coca shrub, which grows in the mountain regions of South American countries such as Bolivia , Colombia , and Peru , regions in which it
3542-443: The effects of stimulants has been studied and characterized both in animals and humans. Stimulant withdrawal is remarkably similar in its symptoms to those of major depressive disorder . Classifying stimulants is difficult, because of the large number of classes the drugs occupy, and the fact that they may belong to multiple classes; for example, ecstasy can be classified as a substituted methylenedioxyphenethylamine ,
3619-473: The exotic sound of the word itself: "Physicians deafen our ears with the honorificabilitudinitatibus of their heavenly panacaea , their sovereign guiacum." The detailed engraving, Preparation and Use of Guayaco for Treating Syphilis , published by Philips Galle after a design by the Flemish artist Jan van der Straet , depicts four servants preparing a concoction of gum guiacum for their wealthy master under
3696-708: The general definition of a stimulant, but other drugs such as cannabinoid receptor antagonists also belong to this group. Eugeroics are used in management of sleep disorders characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness , such as narcolepsy , and include stimulants such as modafinil and pitolisant . Stimulants are used in impulse control disorders such as ADHD and off-label in mood disorders such as major depressive disorder to increase energy , focus and elevate mood. Stimulants such as epinephrine , theophylline and salbutamol orally have been used to treat asthma, but inhaled adrenergic drugs are now preferred due to less systemic side effects. Pseudoephedrine
3773-399: The important neurotransmitter epinephrine (adrenaline). Ephedrine is commonly used as a stimulant, appetite suppressant , concentration aid, and decongestant , and to treat hypotension associated with anesthesia. In chemical terms, it is an alkaloid with a phenethylamine skeleton found in various plants in the genus Ephedra (family Ephedraceae ). It works mainly by increasing
3850-528: The international trade of Texas lignum-vitae is restricted by CITES Appendix II . Only seeds, pollen, and finished products ready for retail sale may be legally exported. Stimulant Stimulants (also known as central nervous system stimulants , or psychostimulants , or colloquially as uppers ) are a class of drugs that increase the activity of the brain . They are used for various purposes, such as enhancing alertness , attention , motivation , cognition , mood , and physical performance . Some of
3927-412: The introduction of conventional antidepressants in the 1950s. Subsequent to this, there has been a resurgence in interest in stimulants for depression in recent years. Stimulants produce a fast-acting and pronounced but transient and short-lived mood lift . In relation to this, they are minimally effective in the treatment of depression when administered continuously. In addition, tolerance to
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#17327802908744004-491: The long-term use of amphetamine in prescription doses, which may improve certain brain regions in individuals with ADHD, there is evidence that methamphetamine causes brain damage from long-term use in humans; this damage includes adverse changes in brain structure and function, such as reductions in gray matter volume in several brain regions and adverse changes in markers of metabolic integrity. However, recreational amphetamine doses may also be neurotoxic. Methylphenidate
4081-470: The mechanisms that underlie these potentially fatal outcomes of acute stimulant toxicity, it is impossible to determine what dose may be lethal. Assessment of the effects of stimulants is relevant given the large population currently taking stimulants. A systematic review of cardiovascular effects of prescription stimulants found no association in children, but found a correlation between prescription stimulant use and ischemic heart attacks . A review over
4158-447: The mood , and increase energy , allowing some users to engage in sexual activity continuously for several days straight. Methamphetamine may be sold illicitly, either as pure dextromethamphetamine or in an equal parts mixture of the right- and left-handed molecules (i.e., 50% levomethamphetamine and 50% dextromethamphetamine). Both dextromethamphetamine and racemic methamphetamine are schedule II controlled substances in
4235-448: The mood-lifting effects of amphetamine has led to dose escalation and dependence . Although the efficacy for depression with continuous administration is modest, it may still reach statistical significance over placebo and provide benefits similar in magnitude to those of conventional antidepressants. The reasons for the short-term mood-improving effects of stimulants are unclear, but may relate to rapid tolerance . Tolerance to
4312-510: The most common stimulant. In North America , 90% of adults consume caffeine daily. A few jurisdictions restrict the sale and use of caffeine. In the United States, the FDA has banned the sale of pure and highly concentrated caffeine products for personal consumption, due to the risk of overdose and death. The Australian Government has announced a ban on the sale of pure and highly concentrated caffeine food products for personal consumption, following
4389-480: The most common stimulants are caffeine , nicotine , amphetamines , cocaine , methylphenidate , and modafinil . Stimulants work by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitters , such as dopamine , norepinephrine , serotonin , histamine and acetylcholine , in the synapses between neurons . Stimulants sometimes also work by binding to the receptors for neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters regulate various functions, such as arousal , attention ,
4466-475: The opposite effect and reduce the ability to focus. This is because the higher doses cause too much stress, which exceeds the optimal level and harms performance. In higher doses, stimulants may also produce euphoria, vigor, and a decreased need for sleep. Many, but not all, stimulants have ergogenic effects. The term "ergogenic" means "enhancing physical performance". Ergogenic effects are those effects that improve physical performance or endurance. For example, if
4543-416: The optimal level of stress and performance. The theory was developed by psychologists Robert Yerkes and John Dillingham Dodson in 1908, based on experiments with mice. Drugs that stimulate the central nervous system, such as those used to treat ADHD, can improve the ability to focus and other aspects of mood and behavior when taken in appropriate doses. However, when taken in higher doses, these drugs can have
4620-928: The plant is found in the states of Chihuahua , San Luis Potosí , Coahuila , Nuevo León , and Tamaulipas . Texas lignum-vitae is a many branched shrub or small tree , reaching a height of 7 m (23 ft). This evergreen has a dense canopy and short lateral branches. Leaves are 1–3 cm (0.39–1.18 in) long, opposite and pinnately compound, with four to eight pairs of leaflets . The dark green, leathery, linear to linear-spatulate leaflets are 5–16 mm (0.20–0.63 in) long and 2–3 mm (0.079–0.118 in) wide. Leaflets fold themselves at night and when exposed to hot sunlight. The small blue to purple flowers are 12–22 mm (0.47–0.87 in) in diameter. They have five sepals , five petals around 1 cm (0.39 in) in length, and ten stamens . The blooming period lasts from March until September, with flowers appearing after rain. The fruit
4697-416: The relative safety of MDMA, some researchers such as David Nutt have criticized the scheduling level, writing a satirical article finding MDMA to be 28 times less dangerous than horseriding, a condition he termed "equasy" or "Equine Addiction Syndrome". Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a psychoactive drug with stimulant properties that acts as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). It
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#17327802908744774-622: The reuptake or stimulate the efflux of these catecholamines, resulting in increased activity of their circuits. Some stimulants, specifically those with empathogenic and hallucinogenic effects, also affect serotonergic transmission. Some stimulants, such as some amphetamine derivatives and, notably, yohimbine , can decrease negative feedback by antagonizing regulatory autoreceptors . Adrenergic agonists , such as, in part, ephedrine , act by directly binding to and activating adrenergic receptors , producing sympathomimetic effects. There are also more indirect mechanisms of action by which
4851-663: The route of administration, with intravenous use associated with the transmission of many disease such as Hepatitis C , HIV/AIDS and potential medical emergencies such as infection , thrombosis or pseudoaneurysm , while inhalation may be associated with increased lower respiratory tract infection , lung cancer , and pathological restricting of lung tissue. Cocaine may also increase risk for autoimmune disease and damage nasal cartilage. Abuse of methamphetamine produces similar effects as well as marked degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, resulting in an increased risk for Parkinson's disease . Stimulants are widely used throughout
4928-409: The same subjective sensations on abusers. Methamphetamine (contracted from N - meth yl - a lpha- m ethyl ph en et hyl amine ) is a potent psychostimulant of the phenethylamine and amphetamine classes that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity . Methamphetamine exists as two enantiomers , dextrorotary and levorotary . Dextromethamphetamine
5005-471: The spotlight. Coffee consumption is associated with a lower overall risk of cancer . This is primarily due to a decrease in the risks of hepatocellular and endometrial cancer , but it may also have a modest effect on colorectal cancer. There does not appear to be a significant protective effect against other types of cancers, and heavy coffee consumption may increase the risk of bladder cancer . A protective effect of caffeine against Alzheimer's disease
5082-401: The supervision of a physician . Paracelsus , the famous if controversial Swiss physician, disputed the effectiveness of this treatment and was censured for his criticism. Gum guaiacum was used to stimulate menstruation ; in a 1793 Virginia court case, Martha Jefferson Randolph testified that she had provided gum guaiacum to a female relative to "produce an abortion ", suggesting that it
5159-446: The use of stimulants is regulated by laws and policies in most countries, and requires medical supervision and prescription in some cases. A stimulant is an overarching term that covers many drugs including those that increase the activity of the central nervous system and the body, drugs that are pleasurable and invigorating, or drugs that have sympathomimetic effects. Sympathomimetic effects are those effects that mimic or copy
5236-452: The wood is an ingredient in the compound concentrated solution of sarsaparilla , which was formerly much used as an alternative in syphilis." A phenolic compound derived from the resin of Guaiacum trees is used in a common test for blood in human stool samples . The presence of heme in the blood causes the formation of a coloured product in the presence of hydrogen peroxide . The effect of peroxidases in horseradish on guiacum
5313-465: The world as prescription medicines as well as without a prescription (either legally or illicitly ) as performance-enhancing or recreational drugs. Among narcotics, stimulants produce a noticeable crash or comedown at the end of their effects. In the US, the most frequently prescribed stimulants as of 2013 were lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), methylphenidate (Ritalin), and amphetamine (Adderall). It
5390-1262: Was Benzedrine , a brand of inhalers used to treat a variety of conditions. Because the dextrorotary isomer has greater stimulant properties, Benzedrine was gradually discontinued in favor of formulations containing all or mostly dextroamphetamine. Presently, it is typically prescribed as mixed amphetamine salts , dextroamphetamine , and lisdexamfetamine . Amphetamine is a norepinephrine-dopamine releasing agent (NDRA). It enters neurons through dopamine and norepinephrine transporters and facilitates neurotransmitter efflux by activating TAAR1 and inhibiting VMAT2 . At therapeutic doses, this causes emotional and cognitive effects such as euphoria, change in libido, increased arousal, and improved cognitive control . Likewise, it induces physical effects such as decreased reaction time, fatigue resistance, and increased muscle strength. In contrast, supratherapeutic doses of amphetamine are likely to impair cognitive function and induce rapid muscle breakdown . Very high doses can result in psychosis (e.g., delusions and paranoia), which very rarely occurs at therapeutic doses even during long-term use. As recreational doses are generally much larger than prescribed therapeutic doses, recreational use carries
5467-557: Was also used as an abortifacient . In A Treatise of the Materia Medica (1789), Scottish physician William Cullen noted: "Several physicians have apprehended mischief from the use of the guaiacum in a spirituous tincture ." The 1955 edition of the Textbook of Pharmacognosy states: "Guaiacum has a local stimulant action which is sometimes useful in sore throat . The resin is used in chronic gout and rheumatism , whilst
5544-478: Was cultivated and used for centuries mainly by the Aymara people . In Europe, North America, and some parts of Asia, the most common form of cocaine is a white crystalline powder. Cocaine is a stimulant but is not normally prescribed therapeutically for its stimulant properties, although it sees clinical use as a local anesthetic, in particular in ophthalmology . Most cocaine use is recreational and its abuse potential
5621-602: Was estimated in 2015 that the percentage of the world population that had used cocaine during a year was 0.4%. For the category "amphetamines and prescription stimulants" (with "amphetamines" including amphetamine and methamphetamine ) the value was 0.7%, and for MDMA 0.4%. Stimulants have been used in medicine for many conditions including obesity , sleep disorders , mood disorders , impulse control disorders , asthma , nasal congestion and, in case of cocaine, as local anesthetics . Drugs used to treat obesity are called anorectics and generally include drugs that follow
5698-485: Was first developed in the 1960s by a team at Boehringer Ingelheim. MDPV remained an obscure stimulant until around 2004, when it was reported to be sold as a designer drug . Products labeled as bath salts containing MDPV were previously sold as recreational drugs in gas stations and convenience stores in the United States, similar to the marketing for Spice and K2 as incense. Incidents of psychological and physical harm have been attributed to MDPV use. Mephedrone
5775-573: Was first noted in 1810. As a food additive , Guaiacum is designated E314 and classified as an antioxidant . A widely used derivative drug is the expectorant known as guaifenesin . The soap fragrance oil of guaiac comes from Bulnesia sarmientoi , a South American tree from the same family. Members of the genus are grown in Florida and California as ornamental plants . Guaiacum angustifolium Porlieria angustifolia (Engelm.) A.Gray Guaiacum angustifolium
5852-622: Was first synthesized in 1929, but did not become widely known until it was rediscovered in 2003. By 2007, mephedrone was reported to be available for sale on the Internet; by 2008 law enforcement agencies had become aware of the compound; and, by 2010, it had been reported in most of Europe, becoming particularly prevalent in the United Kingdom. Mephedrone was first made illegal in Israel in 2008, followed by Sweden later that year. In 2010, it
5929-732: Was made illegal in many European countries, and, in December 2010, the EU ruled it illegal. In Australia, New Zealand, and the US, it is considered an analog of other illegal drugs and can be controlled by laws similar to the Federal Analog Act . In September 2011, the USA temporarily classified mephedrone as illegal, in effect from October 2011. Mephedrone is neurotoxic and has abuse potential, predominantly exerted on 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) terminals, mimicking that of MDMA with which it shares
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